Discouragement is a normal part of the writer’s journey. How could it not be with all of the rejections that are a part of the profession?
We may expect it to come, but it can still take the drive out of our work. Often times we even get stuck there waiting for the confidence to go on. Trouble is while we are stuck nothing happens.
Even when discouragement hits, there are still responsibilities and deadlines. We can’t shut ourselves off from the world and sulk. Instead, embrace where you are and know that it won’t last forever.
3 Tips To Kick Writer’s Discouragement To The Curb:
1. Realize that you are not alone. So much of the time we isolate ourselves because we don’t want anyone to realize how much we are struggling. That achieves nothing. It leaves us in a funk that is hard to break free from. Keep in mind you are not alone and stave off isolation tendencies.
2. Reach out to the writing community. Tell your writing friends about your struggle. Ask for their prayers. You may be surprised to find that they are in the same place as you are or were not that long ago. Sharing the burden with someone else always makes it lighter.
3. Work on your favorite part of the writing process. If you are discouraged it is difficult to face the part of writing you least enjoy. Give yourself permission to take one day to do the thing you love most. If you love to edit, edit. If you love to brainstorm, brainstorm. If you love the rough draft, write the rough draft. This will rejuvenate your love of story and get you back on track.
You don’t have to let discouragement run your writing career. Kick it to the curb and stand with others who have been there, too.
One word: Chocolate!!!! and lots of it. 😉
Another thing that helps me is to read other people’s work. Especially authors who make me laugh. Taking time out to read and relax helps me to refocus on what I need to get done.
And if that fails, then I go back to chocolate…
Love it, Bonnie! I’m all for the chocolate!
Loved these tips:). I fall into the trap of measuring my skill based on the success of other writer friends and it does no good!
That is so easy to do. I’ve been there myself many times.